Keysight U1701B Dual

Display Handheld
Capacitance Meter

User’s and
Service Guide
Notices
Copyright Notice
© Keysight Technologies 2009-2017
No part of this manual may be
reproduced in any form or by any
means (including electronic storage
and retrieval or translation into a
foreign language) without prior
agreement and written consent from
Keysight Technologies as governed by
United States and international
copyright laws.
Manual Part Number
U1701-90055
Edition
Edition 5, July 1, 2017
Printed in:
Printed in Malaysia
Published by:
Keysight Technologies
Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone,
11900 Penang, Malaysia
Technology Licenses
The hardware and/or software
described in this document are
furnished under a license and may be
used or copied only in accordance with
the terms of such license.
Declaration of Conformity
Declarations of Conformity for this
product and for other Keysight
products may be downloaded from the
Web. Go to http://www.keysight.com/
go/conformity. You can then search by
product number to find the latest
Declaration of Conformity.
2 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide
U.S. Government Rights
The Software is “commercial computer
software,” as defined by Federal
Acquisition Regulation (“FAR”) 2.101.
Pursuant to FAR 12.212 and 27.405-3
and Department of Defense FAR
Supplement (“DFARS”) 227.7202, the
U.S. government acquires commercial
computer software under the same
terms by which the software is
customarily provided to the public.
Accordingly, Keysight provides the
Software to U.S. government
customers under its standard
commercial license, which is embodied
in its End User License Agreement
(EULA), a copy of which can be found
at http://www.keysight.com/find/
sweula. The license set forth in the
EULA represents the exclusive authority
by which the U.S. government may use,
modify, distribute, or disclose the
Software. The EULA and the license set
forth therein, does not require or
permit, among other things, that
Keysight: (1) Furnish technical
information related to commercial
computer software or commercial
computer software documentation that
is not customarily provided to the
public; or (2) Relinquish to, or
otherwise provide, the government
rights in excess of these rights
customarily provided to the public to
use, modify, reproduce, release,
perform, display, or disclose
commercial computer software or
commercial computer software
documentation. No additional
government requirements beyond
those set forth in the EULA shall apply,
except to the extent that those terms,
rights, or licenses are explicitly required
from all providers of commercial
computer software pursuant to the FAR
and the DFARS and are set forth
specifically in writing elsewhere in the
EULA. Keysight shall be under no
obligation to update, revise or
otherwise modify the Software. With
respect to any technical data as
defined by FAR 2.101, pursuant to FAR
12.211 and 27.404.2 and DFARS
227.7102, the U.S. government
acquires no greater than Limited Rights
as defined in FAR 27.401 or DFAR
227.7103-5 (c), as applicable in any
technical data.
Warranty
THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS
DOCUMENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS,” AND
IS SUBJECT TO BEING CHANGED,
WITHOUT NOTICE, IN FUTURE
EDITIONS. FURTHER, TO THE MAXIMUM
EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE
LAW, KEYSIGHT DISCLAIMS ALL
WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, WITH REGARD TO THIS
MANUAL AND ANY INFORMATION
CONTAINED HEREIN, INCLUDING BUT
NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. KEYSIGHT SHALL NOT BE
LIABLE FOR ERRORS OR FOR
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH THE
FURNISHING, USE, OR PERFORMANCE
OF THIS DOCUMENT OR OF ANY
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN.
SHOULD KEYSIGHT AND THE USER
HAVE A SEPARATE WRITTEN
AGREEMENT WITH WARRANTY TERMS
COVERING THE MATERIAL IN THIS
DOCUMENT THAT CONFLICT WITH
THESE TERMS, THE WARRANTY TERMS
IN THE SEPARATE AGREEMENT SHALL
CONTROL.
Safety Information
CAUTION
A CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It
calls attention to an operating
procedure, practice, or the like that, if
not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in damage to the product
or loss of important data. Do not
proceed beyond a CAUTION notice
until the indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.
WARNING
A WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It
calls attention to an operating
procedure, practice, or the like that, if
not correctly performed or adhered to,
could result in personal injury or death.
Do not proceed beyond a WARNING
notice until the indicated conditions are
fully understood and met.
Safety Symbols
The following symbols on the instrument and in the documentation indicate
precautions which must be taken to maintain safe operation of the instrument.

Off (supply)
Direct current

Alternating current
On (supply)

Equipment protected throughout by

Both direct and alternating current double insulation or reinforced
insulation.

Caution, risk of electric shock.

Three-phase alternating current

Caution, risk of danger (refer to this

Earth (ground) terminal manual for specific Warning or Caution
information.

Protective conductor terminal Caution, hot surface.

Out position of a bi-stable push

Frame or chassis terminal
control.

Equipotentiality In position of a bi-stable push control.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 3

General Safety Information
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of
operation, service and repair of this instrument. Failure to comply with these
precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety
standards of design, manufacture and intended use of the instrument. Keysight
Technologies assumes no liability for the customer’s failure to comply with these
requirements.

– Read this operation manual completely before using this device and
WARNING follow all safety instructions.
– This device is for indoor use at an altitude of up to 2000 m.
– Avoid working alone.
– Use the device only as specified in this manual; otherwise, the protection
provided by the meter may be impaired.
– Never measure voltage with this meter.
– Do not use this device if it looks damaged.
– Inspect the leads for damaged insulation or exposed metal. Replace
damaged leads.
– Disconnect the power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before
testing.
– Be cautious when working with voltages above 60 VDC or 30 VRMS and
42.4 Vpeak, as it may cause a shock hazard.
– Always use specified battery.
– The meter is designed in compliance with IEC 61010-1.
– CE requirement: Under the influence of RF field according to standard,
the supplied test leads will pick up induced noise. To have better
shielding effect, a short-twisted lead should be used.

– Ensure proper insertion of battery in the meter, and follow the correct
CAUTION polarity.

4 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

Environment Conditions
This instrument is designed for indoor use in areas with low condensation and to
be used with standard or compatible test probes. Table 1-1 shows general
environment requirements.

Table 1-1 Environment Requirements

Environment Cond itions
Operating environment
Operating relative humidity
Storage humidity
Storage environment
Altitude
Pollution Degree
Requirements
Full accuracy at 0 °C to 50 °C
Full accuracy up to 80% RH for temperature up to 31 °C,
decreasing linearly to 50% RH at 50 °C
0 – 80% R.H. non condensing
–20 °C to 60 °C
0 – 2000 m
Pollution Degree 2

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 5

 The U1701B dual display handheld capacitance meter complies with the
CAUTION following safety and EMC requirements:
– IEC 61010-1:2001/EN 61010-1:2001 (2nd Edition)
– CISPR 11:2003+A1:2004
– IEC 61000-4-2:1995+A1:1998 +A2:2000
– IEC 61000-4-3:2006
– IEC 61000-4-4:2004
– IEC 61000-4-5:2005
– IEC 61000-4-6:2003+A1:2004+A2:2006
– IEC 61000-4-11:2004
– Canada: ICES/NMB-001:2004
– Australia/New Zealand: AS/NZS CISPR11:2004

Degradation of some product specifications can occur in the presence of

CAUTION ambient electromagnetic (EM) fields and noise that couples to the product's
powerline, communication or I/O cables. The product self-recovers and
operates to all specifications when the source of the ambient EM field and
noise are removed or the product is protected from the ambient EM field or
the product cabling is shielded from the ambient EM noise.

6 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

Regulatory Markings

The CE mark is a registered trademark of

The RCM mark is a registered trademark
the European Community. This CE mark
of the Australian Communications and
shows that the product complies with all
Media Authority.
the relevant European Legal Directives.

This instrument complies with the WEEE

Directive (2002/96/EC) marking
ICES/NMB-001 indicates that this ISM
requirement. This affixed product label
device complies with Canadian
indicates that you must not discard this
ICES-001.
electrical/electronic product in domestic
household waste.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 7

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
2002/96/EC
This instrument complies with the WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC) marking
requirement. This affixed product label indicates that you must not discard this
electrical or electronic product in domestic household waste.

Product category:
With reference to the equipment types in the WEEE directive Annex 1, this
instrument is classified as a “Monitoring and Control Instrument” product.
The affixed product label is as shown below.

Do not dispose in domestic household waste.

To return this unwanted instrument, contact your nearest Keysight Service Center,
or visit http://about.keysight.com/en/companyinfo/environment/takeback.shtml
for more information.

Sales and Technical Support

To contact Keysight for sales and technical support, refer to the support links on
the following Keysight websites:
– www.keysight.com/find/handheldcr
(product-specific information and support, software and
documentation updates)
– www.keysight.com/find/assist
(worldwide contact information for repair and service)

8 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

In This Guide…
1 Getting Started Chapter 1 introduces key features and steps to get started
with the U1701B dual display handheld capacitance meter. This chapter also
guides you through the basics of the front panel operations.

2 Features and Functions Chapter 2 describes the features and functions that
are available in the U1701B dual display handheld capacitance meter in
step-by-step instructions.

3 Default Setting Configurations Chapter 3 describes on how to change and

configure the default setting of the U1701B dual display handheld capacitance
meter and other setting features

4 Service and Maintenance Chapter 4 provides the information on the

warranty, services, maintenance procedures and troubleshooting hints to solve
general problems that you may encounter with the meter.

5 Specifications and Characteristics Chapter 5 lists U1701B‘s electrical

specifications, general specifications, and SMD Tweezer’s specifications.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 9

 THIS PAGE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

10 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

Table of Contents

Safety Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
General Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Environment Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Regulatory Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
2002/96/EC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Product category: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Sales and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
In This Guide… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

1 Getting Started
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Checking the Shipping Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
The Front Panel at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Display Annunciators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Special Indication Characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
The Keypad at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
The Input Terminal at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

2 Features and Functions

Static Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Data Hold/Trigger Hold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Relative (Zero) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Range Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Tolerance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Compare Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Setting HI/LO limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Capacitance Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Communication (Optional Accessories) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 11

 3 Default Setting Configurations
Power-On Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Demonstrate Display Annunciators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Default Factory HI/LO Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Selecting Setup Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Setting Factory Default . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Setting Baud Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Setting Parity Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Setting Data Bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Setting Echo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Setting Print Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Setting Beep Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Setting Keypad Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Setting Auto Power-Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Setting Backlight Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Setting Brightness Level of the Backlight for OFF State . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Setting Brightness Level of the Backlight for ON State . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Reset to Default . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

4 Service and Maintenance

General Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Battery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Specification Validation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

5 Specifications and Characteristics

12 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Keysight U1701B Dual Display Handheld Capacitance Meter
User’s and Service Guide

1 Getting Started
Introduction 14
Checking the Shipping Contents 15
The Front Panel at a Glance 16
Display Annunciators 17
The Keypad at a Glance 20
The Input Terminal at a Glance 21

This chapter introduces the key features and getting started tips of the U1701B
dual display handheld capacitance meter. This chapter also guides you through
the basics of the front panel operations.

13
1 Getting Started

Introduction
This meter is uniquely designed for capacitor sorting. It is a fully auto-ranging
11000 count meter. Manual ranging can be selected via the front push key.

– Auto-range, 11000 count resolution and large LCD with dual display.
– Wide range resolution and measurement from 0.1 pF to 199.99 mF.
– Visible and audible tolerance mode assists you to sort the capacitor.
– Comparison mode with 25 sets for High/Low limit setting, including the
non-volatile memory available in the U1701B. This will save your settings even
when the meter is powered off.
– Static recording captures stable values for maximum, average and minimum
without using a calculator.
– Relative mode will help you to calculate the difference between a standard and
a measuring value.
– Data hold with manual or auto trigger
– Bi-directional optic computer interface with available software application will
assist you to a specialist and make report easier.
– Low battery indication
– Bright LED backlight
– Safe, precise, and speed closed case calibration

14 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Getting Started 1

Checking the Shipping Contents

Inspect and verify that you have received the following items for the standard
purchase of the U1701B and/or optional accessories that you may have ordered. If
any of the item listed below is missing, contact your nearest Keysight
Technologies Sales Office.

Table 1-1 List of standard and optional accessories

Type Part Number Accessories
Keysight U1701B Quick Start Guide
Alligator clip leads
Standard
9 V Alkaline battery
Certificate of Calibration (CoC)
U5481A IR to USB cable
U1780A Power adaptor
Optional
U1782A SMD Tweezers
U1174A Soft carrying case

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 15

1 Getting Started

The Front Panel at a Glance

Figure 1-1 Front panel of U1701B dual display handheld capacitance meter

No. Panels

1 Annunciator display
2 Keypad
3 Input terminals

16 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Getting Started 1

Display Annunciators

To view the full display, press and hold then press to power-on the
meter. Press any key to resume to normal functionality mode.

7 11
9
10
8

12
13
6
5 14

4
15
3

2 16
1 17

Figure 1-2 Annunciator display of a U1701B dual display handheld

capacitance meter

Table 1-2 Descriptions of each annunciator

No. Symbols Descriptions
1 Low battery indicator

2 Reading out of the LO limit

3 Reading out of the HI limit

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 17

1 Getting Started

Table 1-2 Descriptions of each annunciator (continued)

No. Symbols Descriptions
4 Auto power-off indicator

5 TOL 1% 5% 10% Tolerance mode, to set 1%, 5%, 10% and 20% for sorting capacitance.
20%
6 AUTO AUTO range

7 C Charging period will be flashed, display as discharging period

8 MAX AVG MIN Static recording mode
MAX: Maximum reading
AVG: Average reading
MIN: Minimum reading
9 REL Relative mode
10 DH Data hold to hold the displayed digital value (DH flashing means under
trigger)
11 Secondary display

12 Audible alert for tolerance or compare mode

13 % Unit for tolerance display.

14 kHz Unit for Beeper Frequency as setup mode
15 Primary display

16 Capacitance unit
pF: 1/1000,000,000,000 F
nF: 1/1000,000,000 F
F: 1/1000,000 F
mF: 1/1000 F
17 Remote control

18 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Getting Started 1

Special Indication Characters

Descriptions Descriptions
Reading out of the HI/LO The primary display shows HI
limits limit setting

Reading within the HI/LO The primary display shows LO

limits limit setting

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 19

1 Getting Started

The Keypad at a Glance

9 8

1 7

2 6

3 5

Figure 1-3 Keypad of a U1701B dual display handheld capacitance meter

Table 1-3 Keypad descriptions and functions

No. Keys Functions
1 Power To turn ON/OFF the instrument
2 SET Set high/low limits for compare mode
3 REC Static recording mode
4 Compare mode

5 REL Relative mode

6 HOLD Data hold
SAVE To store the setting value into the memory
7 RANGE Manual range
AUTO Auto range
8 HI/LO High/Low limits
Backlight display

9 TOL Tolerance mode

20 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Getting Started 1

The Input Terminal at a Glance

To avoid damaging this device, discharge the capacitor before testing. Be

WARNING sure the polarity for capacitance measurement.

1 2 3

Figure 1-4 Input terminals/sockets of U1701B dual display handheld

capacitance meter

No. Terminals Functions

1 + Positive terminal/ socket
2 – Negative terminal/ socket
3 GUARD Guard terminal/ socket

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 21

1 Getting Started

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22 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Keysight U1701B Dual Display Handheld Capacitance Meter
User’s and Service Guide

2 Features and Functions

Static Recording 24
Data Hold/Trigger Hold 26
Relative (Zero) 27
Range Mode 29
Tolerance Mode 30
Compare Mode 32
Setting HI/LO limits 36
Capacitance Measurement 38
Communication (Optional Accessories) 40

This chapters provides detailed information on the features and functions that are
available in the U1701B.

23
2 Features and Functions

Static Recording
The static recording mode can record the maximum capacitance and minimum
capacitance you measured. Furthermore it is able to perform averaging on the
measurement result. Static recording captures only stable values and updates the
memory; the meter will not record values that are OL (overload) or below 10
counts.
The operational procedures are described below:
1 Press REC key momentarily to enter the static recording. The present value is
stored to memories of maximum, minimum and average. The MAX, AVG, MIN
annunicator will be lit.
2 Press this key momentarily to cycle through maximum, minimum, average and
present readings. The MAX, MIN, AVG or MAX AVG MIN annunciator turns on
respectively to indicate which value is being displayed (see Figure 2-1).
3 The beeper will beep once when a new MAX or MIN value has been recorded.
4 Selecting static recording mode as auto range, it will record the value of MAX,
MIN or AVG for different ranges.
5 Press REC key for more than 1 s to exit recording mode.

6 The auto power-off feature will be disabled and the will be turned off
as recording mode.

24 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

Figure 2-1 Tolerance operation

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 25

2 Features and Functions

Data Hold/Trigger Hold

The data hold function allows the users to hold the displayed digital value. Refer
to the following procedures to enable data hold:
1 Press HOLD key to freeze the displayed value and enter manual trigger mode,
and the sign of DH will be displayed.
2 Press HOLD key again to trigger another new measuring value updated to
display. The sign of DH will be flashed before the new updates.
3 Press HOLD key for more than 1 s to exit this mode.

Figure 2-2 Data/Trigger Hold operation

26 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

Relative (Zero)
The relative function subtracts a stored value from the present measurement and
displays the result on the meter.
1 Press REL key momentarily to set the relative mode. This will set the display to
zero and store the displayed reading as a reference value. The REL annunciator
will be displayed.
2 The relative mode can be set at auto or manual range, but not when an
overload has occurred.
3 Press REL key momentarily to set the relative mode again.
4 With small capacitance measurement, the display will show a non-zero value
due to the presence of alligator clip leads. Use the relative function to
Zero-Adjust the display.
5 Press and hold REL key for more than 1 s to quit relative mode.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 27

2 Features and Functions

Figure 2-3 Relative (Zero) operation

28 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

Range Mode
To set auto or manual range, refer to the procedures below:
1 Press RANGE key to select manual range and turn off the AUTO annunciator.
2 Press RANGE key once to step up a range at a time.
3 In auto-range, the AUTO annunciator is displayed and the meter will select an
appropriate range for resolution if a reading is greater than maximum available
range, OL (overload) will be displayed. The meter will select a lower range
when reading is less than about 9% of full scale.
4 Press RANGE key for more than 1 s to select auto-range.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 29

2 Features and Functions

Tolerance Mode
The tolerance mode has 1%, 5%, 10%, and 20% tolerance ranges. To enter the
tolerance mode, insert a standard value into the socket. Press the TOL key to set
the display value as the standard reference. Similarly, the DH value which appears
on the primary display can be used as a standard value to sort the components.
Press TOL key again to cycle through 1%, 5%, 10% and 20% tolerance and select
the desired tolerance. The meter range locks as tolerance mode.
This mode can not be set under following condition:
– After setting the recording mode.
– After setting HI/LO Audible Alert mode.
– The tested display is either OL or below 10 count.

This function is designed for sorting the values. The beeper will beep three times
when the reading is out of the selected tolerance. A single beep represents that
the reading is within the selected tolerance.

To exit tolerance mode, press and hold TOL key for more than 1 s
NOTE

30 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

Figure 2-4 Tolerance operation

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 31

2 Features and Functions

Compare Mode
The compare mode allows you to sort out the capacitors, and you can set up to
25 sets of limit ranges. This meter has initial set for High and Low limits, see below
table:

No High limit Low Limit

1 100 90
2 120 108
3 150 135
4 180 162
5 220 198
6 270 243
7 330 297
8 390 351
9 470 423
10 560 504
11 680 612
12 820 738
13 1000 900
14 1200 1080
15 1500 1350
16 1800 1620
17 2200 1980
18 2700 2430
19 3300 2970
20 3900 3510
21 4700 4230
22 5600 5040
23 6800 6120
24 8200 7380
25 10000 9000

32 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

These initial sets can be modified, please refer to the Setting HI/LO limits for
detailed description. Besides that, the power-on option can be used to restore the
default factory settings.
The following procedures will guide you on how to set compare mode:

1 Press key momentarily to enter HI/LO Audible Alert mode. The

meter locks range in this mode. The annunciator will be indicated, and
the secondary display will indicate C01 to C25 or the previously saved set
during last operation. The first left digit means comparison mode. The last
two digits indicate current comparison set. The primary display will indicate
the present measurement. The meter is ready to test.

2 Press key momentarily to select different sets. The secondary

display will indicate C01 to C25 according to which comparison set has
been selected. Press and hold SAVE key for more than 1 s to save
comparison set for next entry.
3 Press HI/LO key to cycle through the HI/LO value used for comparison
and back to ready mode. The HI/LO limits will be briefly indicated on the
primary display, and then back to the ready mode.
4 If the reading is out of the HI/LO limits, the beeper will beep three times
and the secondary display will indicate nGo. If the reading is within the
HI/LO limits, the beeper will beep once and the secondary display will
indicate Go. After 3 s, the meter will return to ready state.

5 Press and hold the key for more than 1 s to exit audible alert
mode.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 33

2 Features and Functions

Figure 2-5 Set compare mode

34 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

Figure 2-6 shows you the display by compare mode for sorting:

Figure 2-6 Sorting by compare mode

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 35

2 Features and Functions

Setting HI/LO limits

To set the HIGH and LOW limits for compare mode, refer to the following
procedures:
1 Press and hold SET key for more than 1 s to enable the HI/LO limit setting
mode.
2 The secondary display will flash L01 and the primary display will indicate the
limit value. The following keys will be used for this setting mode:

a (Left) or (Right): select which digit to be adjusted.

b (Up) or (Down): to Increase or decrease the current digit value.

c HI/LO: Select High or Low limit to be set.
d SAVE: Press this key for more than 1 second to store the setting value into
the memory. The beeper will beep twice, meaning the selected value has
been stored. If the current setting does not meet the rule that the HI limit
must be equal or greater than the LO limit, the beeper will beep three
times.
3 SET: Select next compare setting. Press this key momentarily to cycle through
#01 to #25 then return to #01 setting according to Hi/LO limit.
4 Press and hold the SET key for more than 1 second to exit the HI/LO limit
setting mode.

36 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

Figure 2-7 Setting High/ Low limits

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 37

2 Features and Functions

Capacitance Measurement

To avoid possible damage to the meter or the equipment under test,

CAUTION disconnect circuit power and discharge the capacitor before measuring
capacitance.

Capacitance is the ability of a component to store an electrical charge. The unit of

capacitance is the farad (F). Most capacitors are within the range for nanofarad
(nF) to microfarad (µF). The meter measures capacitance by charging the
capacitor with a known current, measuring the resulting time of charging period,
and then calculating the capacitance. The larger capacitors will take longer time
to charge. The sign of C flashing means that the meter is charging capacitor. To
improve the measurement accuracy of small value capacitance, press REL with
the alligator clip leads open to subtract the residual capacitance of the meter and
leads.

Measuring tip: For measuring capacitance >1000 µF, discharge capacitor first
NOTE and then select a suitable range to measure it. This will speed up the measuring
time to achive the correct value.

1 Power-on the meter.

2 To test for capacitance, keep an open circuit on the test leads and press REL
key to subtract the residual capacitance of the meter and leads.
3 Insert the legs of the capacitor into + and – input sockets respectively. Ensure
that the polarity of the capacitor’s leg are correct.
4 Remove your hands from capacitor to allows it to be tested.
5 Read the measurement on the display.

38 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Features and Functions 2

Figure 2-8 Capacitance measurement

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 39

2 Features and Functions

Communication (Optional Accessories)

The meter is reserved with communication capability. The optional IR-USB
package comes with full optical isolated cable and software. This function enables
the user to record the data easily. Refer to the following procedures to set up the
communication between your meter and personal computer (PC).
1 Connect one side of the cable to the meter with the Keysight Logo facing up
and connect the USB connector to the PC.
2 Run the software to transfer the data to the PC for your applications.
3 To remove the cable, press and pull the snap ends on each side of the cable
that is connected to the meter.

Figure 2-9 Cable connection of remote communication

40 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Keysight U1701B Dual Display Handheld Capacitance Meter
User’s and Service Guide

3 Default Setting
Configurations
Power-On Option 42
Setting Factory Default 44
Setting Baud Rate 45
Setting Parity Check 46
Setting Data Bit 47
Setting Echo 48
Setting Print Only 49
Setting Beep Frequency 50
Setting Keypad Lock 51
Setting Auto Power-Off 52
Setting Backlight Display 54
Setting Brightness Level of the Backlight for OFF State 55
Setting Brightness Level of the Backlight for ON State 56
Reset to Default 57

This chapter provides details on how to change and configure the default setting
of U1701B and other setting features.

41
3 Default Setting Configurations

Power-On Option
To select power-on options listed in Table 3-1, press and hold the respective key
then press ON/OFF key to power-on the meter.
Table 3-1 Power-ON Options

Key Selectable Parameters

HOLD Demonstrate Annunciators
To demonstrate the annunciators, the entire annunciators will be
displayed. Press any key to exit demonstration mode.

Reset the high and the low limits to factory's default values.

RANGE Fast power off test for factory’s purpose

REL To view the firmware version
SET Setup mode
Configure related parameter, please refer to Selecting Setup Mode for
more details

Demonstrate Display Annunciators

To demonstrate the annunciators, press HOLD and turn on the meter
simultaneously. All annunciators will be displayed. Press any key to exit
demonstration mode.

Default Factory HI/LO Setting

To set the high and the low limits to manufacture's default values.

42 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

Selecting Setup Mode

Press and hold SET key and power-on the instrument from OFF status. Release
SET key when you hear a beep, the instrument will then enter setup mode. These
parameters will be remained in the non- volatile memory even after the
instrument is turned off. To configure the related parameters on setup mode,
ensure that the following procedures are followed:

1 Press (Left) or (Right) key to select which menu item to be set.

2 Press (Up) or (Down) key to change the parameter.

3 Press SET key to select the digit to be adjusted, the selected digit will flash.
4 Press and hold SET key for more than 1 s to save your setting.
5 Press SET key for more than 1 s to exit setup mode.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 43

3 Default Setting Configurations

Setting Factory Default

Table 3-2 lists out the setup menu item and factory default settings.
Table 3-2 Outline of setup menu items

Menu item Factory Setting Selectable Parameters

bAUd 9600 Baud rate: 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200
PArt none Parity: odd, even or none
Data 8-b 8 bits or 7 bits (Stop bit is always 1 bit)
Echo oFF Echo: on or oFF
Prnt oFF Print: on or oFF
beep 4800 Driving frequency: 4800, 2400, 1200, 600 Hz. oFF
means to disable beep.
LbUt oFF Lock keys, oFF: enable keypad
on: disable keypad
AoFF 15 1~99 minutes, oFF means to disable auto power off.
blit 30 1~99 seconds, oFF means to disable turning off
backlight automatically.
boFF oFF Bright level of backlight at OFF state: oFF~09
bon 09 Bright level of backlight at ON state: oFF~09
dEFA rSt Reset above item to factory original setting.

Press SAVE key to implement the above settings.

NOTE

44 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

Setting Baud Rate

The baud rate is selected for remote control. It can be set to 2400, 4800, 9600 or
19200. To select your desired rate, refer to Figure 3-1.

Figure 3-1 Baud rate setup for remote control

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 45

3 Default Setting Configurations

Setting Parity Check

The parity check is selected for remote control. It can be set to none, even or odd
bit. To select the parity, refer to Figure 3-2.

Figure 3-2 Parity check setup for remote control

46 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

Setting Data Bit

The data bit is selected for remote control. It can be set to 8 bits or 7 bits. The stop
bit is defined to 1 bit and cannot be changed. To select the data bit, refer to
Figure 3-3.

Figure 3-3 Data bit setup for remote control

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 47

3 Default Setting Configurations

Setting Echo
When the meter is set to ECHO ON, the meter echoes (returns) all the characters
what it receives. To enable the Echo, refer to Figure 3-4.

Figure 3-4 Echo Setup

48 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

Setting Print Only

If the remote interface of the meter is under print-only mode, the meter will print
out only the measured data when the measuring cycle is completed. The meter
will auto-send the latest data to a host continuously. The meter will not accept
any commands from the host when print-only is enabled. The remote indicator of
the meter will be flashed during operation as Print-only ON. To enable the
print-only, refer to Figure 3-5.

Figure 3-5 Print-only Setup

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 49

3 Default Setting Configurations

Setting Beep Frequency

The driving frequency can be set to 4800, 2400, 1200, or 600. The beeper can be
set to oFF if you want to keep it silent during operation. To select a preferred tone,
refer to Figure 3-6.

Figure 3-6 Driving frequency of Beeper setup

50 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

Setting Keypad Lock

The keypad can be disabled with the use of this option. When this setting is
enabled, all the keys are disabled except for the power ON/OFF key. To enable or
disable keypad lock, refer to Figure 3-7.

Figure 3-7 Keypad lock

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 51

3 Default Setting Configurations

Setting Auto Power-Off

The timer for Auto Power-Off (APO) can be set ranging from 1 minute to
99 minutes, off means that the auto power-off function is disabled. To set timer,
refer to Figure 3-8.

Figure 3-8 Auto power saving setup

52 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

The meter will not be automatically powered off within the setting period, if any of
the following happens:
a Keypad is being used
b Static recording is set
c Auto power-off has been disabled by Setup Mode
You can toggle the power ON/OFF key to activate the meter after auto power-off,
or press any keys to activate the meter. When the meter will be used for longer
period, you may disable the APO. The indicator will be turned off when APO
is disabled. The meter will operate continuously when APO is disabled.

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 53

3 Default Setting Configurations

Setting Backlight Display

The timer can be set ranging from 1 s to 99 s, oFF means that the backlight will
not be automatically disabled. The backlight will be turned off automatically after
a setting period. To set the timer, refer to Figure 3-9.

Figure 3-9 Backlight timer setup

54 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

Setting Brightness Level of the Backlight for OFF State

This option is used to set the brightness level for the backlight during OFF state.
The brightness can be set from oFF~09.

Figure 3-10 Brightness level for OFF state

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 55

3 Default Setting Configurations

Setting Brightness Level of the Backlight for ON State

This option is used to set the brightness level for the backlight during ON state. It
is used to set brightness after the backlight is turned on. It can be set from
oFF~09. When you turn on the backlight during normal operation, press SET key
once to increase one level. The adjusting range is from default to 09 then back to
default settings. For example, if the brightness level is set to 05, press SET key to
increase the level from 05 until 09 then back to 05 after the backlight is turned on
as normal operation. If the default is set to 09, there will be no changes when the
SET key is pressed.

Figure 3-11 Brightness level for ON state

56 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Default Setting Configurations 3

Reset to Default
Press SAVE key for more than 1 s to reset the setting to the default factory
settings. The setup mode will be set to Baud Rate menu item automatically after
resetting the meter.

Figure 3-12 Reset to default

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 57

3 Default Setting Configurations

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58 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Keysight U1701B Dual Display Handheld Capacitance Meter
User’s and Service Guide

4 Service and Maintenance

General Maintenance 60
Battery Replacement 61
Cleaning 62
Specification Validation 63

This chapter provides information on warranty services, maintenance procedures,

and troubleshooting hints to solve general problems that you may encounter with
the instrument. Repair or service which are not covered in this manual should only
be performed by qualified personnel.

59
4 Service and Maintenance

General Maintenance
To avoid electrical shock, do not perform any service unless you are qualified
WARNING to do so.

If the instrument fails to operate, check battery and alligator clip leads, and
replace them if necessary. If the instrument is still not working, double check the
operating procedure as described in this User’s and Service Guide. When
servicing, use specified replacement parts only. Table 4-1 contains the list of basic
problems.

Table 4-1 Basic problems

Mal function Identification

– Check whether the power key has been locked
No LCD ind ication as power ON completely.
– Check the battery or replace battery.
– Check setup mode whether the beeper has been set to
No beeper tone
OFF. Then select the desired driving frequency.
– Check whether the meter is under remote control.
– Turn OFF and then turn ON the meter again.
Keypad failure
– Check the setup mode whether Lbut of lock keys has
been set on.
– The optical side of cable connected to meter, the
Failed on Remote control
Keysight logo on the cover should be facing up.

60 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Service and Maintenance 4

Battery Replacement
Remove all test leads and external adaptor before opening the case.
WARNING

To avoid instruments being damage from battery leakage:

CAUTION
– Always remove dead batteries immediately.
– Always remove the battery and store it separately if the meter is not going
to be used for a long period.

The meter is powered by 9 V battery, ensure that only the specified battery is

used. You are required to replace the battery immediately when the
annunciator is flashing. To replace the battery, refer to the following procedures:

1 Remove alligator clip leads and power-off the meter.

2 Unscrew the screw on the battery cover (see Figure 4-1).
3 Slide down the battery cover and remove the cover.
4 Replace the battery with a specified 9 V battery.
5 Reverse the procedure step 3 and 4 to close the bottom cover.
Battery Type ANSI/NEDA IEC
Alkaline 1604A 6LR61

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 61

4 Service and Maintenance

Battery Cover Screw

Figure 4-1 Battery replacement

Cleaning
To avoid electrical shock or damage to the meter, do not get water inside the
WARNING case

To clean the instrument, use a soft cloth dampened in a solution of mild detergent
and water. Do not spray cleaner directly onto the instrument as it may leak into
the cabinet and cause damage. Do not use chemicals containing benzine,
benzene, toluene, xylene, acetone or similar solvents to clean the instrument.
After cleaning, ensure that the instrument is completely dry before using.

62 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Service and Maintenance 4

Specification Validation
You can perform self-validation of the capacitance meter's accuracy by using the
recommended equipment with the specified test ranges below.
Table 4-2 Recommended Equipment List

Standard Source Operating Range Limit Recommended Equipment

Capacitance 1 nF ~10 nF ± 0.5% Fluke 5520A
Calibrator 100 nF ~10 mF ± 0.25% or equivalent

Table 4-3 Ranges of Functional Validation

Range Test Value Used

1000.0 p 500 p
1000.0 n 500 n
1000.0 µ 500 µ
199.99 m 100 m

Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide 63

4 Service and Maintenance

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64 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

 Keysight U1701B Dual Display Handheld Capacitance Meter
User’s and Service Guide

5 Specifications and
Characteristics
For the characteristics and specifications of the U1701B Dual Display Handheld
Capacitance Meter, refer to the datasheet at
http://literature.cdn.keysight.com/litweb/pdf/5990-3525EN.pdf.

65
5 Specifications and Characteristics

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66 Keysight U1701B User’s and Service Guide

This information is subject to change
without notice. Always refer to the
Keysight website for the latest
revision.

© Keysight Technologies 2009-2017

Edition 5, July 1, 2017

Printed in Malaysia

*U1701-90055*
U1701-90055
www.keysight.com